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Find our Furry Friends..
Red squirrels have been declining in the UK dramatically, predominantly due to grey squirrels carrying diseases that red squirrels weren't immune too, which they passed on when they first arrived in England. Grey squirrels also have a much more varied diet, which has led the grey squirrel to survive and reproduce much better. Today the red squirrel population is estimated to be under 140,000, down from an all time high of around 3.5 million.
Red squirrels however can still be seen in parts of the UK and our lodges in the Yorkshire Dales are based in a great place to spot them. Red squirrels not only differ in colour, they also have distinctive ear tufts and are known to be more tame than their grey equivalents.
The Best Place to See Red Squirrels in the Yorkshire Dales:
SNAIZEHOLME RED SQUIRREL TRAIL
Located right in the heart of The Yorkshire Dales the trail is based in the valley of Snaizeholme and is around 3 miles long. The trail includes a viewing platform, where the squirrels feed, however they've made a home for themselves in the woodland valley, so if you keep your eyes peeled you may seem them on your walk too. If you're really lucky you may even spot some roe deer, along with a variety of woodland birds whilst you're there. Hop on the 'Little White Bus' from the Dales Countryside Museum which will drop you off at the top of the trail.
Top Tips for Spotting Squirrels:
- Keep quiet and still, they have exceptional hearing!
- Keep an eye out for pine cones that have been stripped - typical squirrel food!
- They spend most of their time up in the trees, so keep your gaze skyward.
- Listen for rustling or a slight chattering noise.
Did you know...?
- Red squirrels are about 50% smaller than that of their grey counterparts.
- They can swim, climb and run pretty speedily.
- They have little tufts on the tip of their ears, making them easily distinguishable.
- They don't hibernate during winter, but are less active.
- Their babies are referred to as 'kittens'. with three or four in each litter.
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